This Page is dedicated to the loving memory of my grandfather, Charles A. Welchons, Sr.

My car was purchased in August of 1992 from Reinfrow Park with 88, 000 original miles on the odometer. His uncle, Pete Harris, had purchased the car from Jackson Motors in Chase City, VA as a company car for Bratten Machine and Implement Company. He owned the car until his death, and it was then sold by his wife to their nephew, Reinfrow. A restoration was performed on the car in the early eighties which involved the rebuilding of the original 396 engine by Blanks Racing Engines in Clarksville, VA. In addition, the body was treated to a coating of zinc oxide primer underneath and a fresh coat of the original shade of Marina Blue Paint. It was driven on a regular basis, both on the street and at the track.

I found the car thru a local newspaper classified ad listing a "1966 Chevelle, 396, automatic, $500.00" upon inqury it was found that it was a bona fide SS396 car, but was really selling for$5,000.00. A misprint by the newspaper had sent a flood of calls to the owner and no one really serious had called about the car. It was only a few miles from my home and I immediately went to take a look. Much to my surprise, I found a car I had seen 3 years earlier in a parking lot, but at the time could not locate the owner. It was exactly what I had hoped to find. A deal was struck about 3 weeks later and the car was mine. I can still remember Mr. Park saying to his son, as i loaded the car onto the trailer, "remember this car". It was a true emotional moment for all of us. I did a few things to the car such as installing new rally wheels and tires, checking the braking system, and changing all the vital fluids before attempting to drive it on the road. It had been several years since the car was street driven, as it had been sitting in a garage for a few years. I attempted to take the car for its maiden voyage, little did I know that it was going to be such a short trip. A strange ticking noise disturbed me and I quickly returned home. After inspection and close scrutiny it was found that a main bearing was gone, thus beginning a 6 month rebuilding process. With the help and guidance from my grandfather, the engine was meticulously brought back to its former glory which included a replacement of every internal part, a hot dipping and boring of the block and reworking of the valves. I drove the car for a period of two years, only on sunny days of course! Now I am embarking on the car's second restoration. On june 11th, I lost my grandfather to cancer and along with him, my mentor in this restoration. The car is currently in Mike's Glass and Body Shop undergoing sheetmetal replacement in the trunk area, and all new window glass. I have acquired a spare bedroom full of parts for the restoration of this car and am slowly restoring it as funds and time allow. It must be said that without the loving help of my grandfather the engine would still be in piecestoday. He was truly a great mechanic and was service manager for over 18 years at the very dealership that my car was purchased originially. It was once said that he had forgotten more about cars than most people will ever learn. The restoration of this car is my tribute to him.

Chevelle links

My Garage and Picture Page

Team Chevelle

The American Chevelle Enthusiasts Society-ACES

The Chevelle Spot

Canadian Classics Chevelles and Beaumonts

Ausley's Chevelle Parts

Email to: roblove@hotmail.com

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